Electronic Fall Monitoring System

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an improved electronic fall monitoring system comprising a device having multiple sensor ports for flexibly monitoring various sensors associated with a single patient without requiring repeated connections and disconnections of sensors. With several sensors simultaneously connected at different locations, a processor can execute to ensure that only one sensor, corresponding to one patient, is monitored at any given time, including by triggering an alarm when a second sensor is triggered while a first sensor is in use. Accordingly, the system can provide a “one step transfer” in which a caregiver may simply press hold once to transfer a patient from one sensed area to another. In addition, the caregiver can simply actuate a single input with only a momentary press to allow suspension of monitoring for a shorter duration (hold) or a longer press to allow suspension of monitoring for a longer duration (extended hold).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/423,348, entitled “Electronic Fall Monitoring System,” filed on May28, 2019, which claims priority to U.S. provisional patent applicationNo. 62/748,886, entitled “Electronic Fall Monitoring System,” filed Oct.22, 2018, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of patient care, and moreparticularly, to electronic fail monitoring systems connecting topatient sensors in a patient care setting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electronic fall monitoring systems are typically used in healthcarefacilities to provide an early warning as to when a patient who is atrisk for falling is attempting to get up without assistance. Althoughfall monitoring systems do not themselves prevent falls, they canprovide advance notification to others that a patient is moving from thesensor so that assistance can be rendered.

Fall monitoring systems typically include a device connected to apressure sensitive sensor or mat. When a patient rests on the sensor,which could be placed on a bed or chair, the sensor triggers the deviceto begin monitoring. When the patient later moves from the sensor,unless the device is suspended or powered down, the device can initiatean alarm. Possible alarms include an audible tone, playback of arecorded statement to return to the sensor and/or a message sent to anurse call station. While fall monitoring systems are effective :forproviding early warning when a patient is moving, it is neverthelessdesirable to increase their capability, robustness and ease of use wherepossible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an improved electronic fall monitoringsystem comprising a device having multiple sensor ports for flexiblymonitoring various sensors associated with a single patient withoutrequiring repeated connections and disconnections of sensors. Withseveral sensors simultaneously connected at different locations, aprocessor can execute to ensure that only one sensor, corresponding toone patient, is monitored at any given time, including by triggering analarm when a second sensor is triggered while a first sensor is in use.Accordingly, in one aspect, the system can provide a “one step transfer”in which a caregiver may simply press hold once to transfer a patientfrom one sensed area to another, such as from bed to chair. In addition,the caregiver can simply actuate a single input with only a momentarypress to allow suspension of monitoring for a shorter duration (hold) ora longer press to allow suspension of monitoring for a longer duration(extended hold).

Sensors can include pads :for chairs, beds and toilets, and alarm beltsand wearable devices. Sensors can indicate presence or absence of apatient on the sensor, and in some cases, a patient's position, relativepatient movement, a patient's movement between zones, and/or rate ofpatient movement. Also, the system can be configured to latch an alarm,meaning an active alarm continues even if the alarm condition issatisfied and no longer occurring (a patient returning to a sensor), ornot latch the alarm, meaning an active alarm stops when the alarmcondition is satisfied and no longer occurring (the patient returning tothe sensor).

In addition, operation of the device can be simplified with a singlemulti-color LED illuminating in different colors corresponding todifferent states of the system. Also, a power switch for turning thedevice on or off, such as for conserving power, can be placed in arecess of the device so that it is blocked when mounted, therebyavoiding being turned off when it should be monitoring.

Specifically then, one aspect of the present invention can provide anelectronic fall monitoring system, including: multiple sensor ports,each sensor port being operable to connect to a patient sensor fordetecting an activation indicating a physical presence at the patientsensor and a deactivation indicating a loss of physical presence at thepatient sensor; a standby input; and a processor executing a programstored in a non-transient medium, the processor executing the programto: select a mode from among multiple modes, the modes including amonitor mode in which a sensor port connected to a patient sensor ismonitored for a deactivation, an alarm mode in which an alarm is activefollowing a deactivation detected in the monitor mode, and a standbymode in which the alarm is inactive, in which the standby mode isselected before an activation is detected at any sensor port, themonitor mode is selected when an activation is detected at a firstsensor port, the alarm mode is selected when a deactivation is detectedat the first sensor port following the activation, and selection of thestandby input causes a temporary transition to the standby mode fromeither the monitor mode or the alarm mode.

Another aspect of the present invention can provide an electronic fallmonitoring system, including: multiple sensor ports, each sensor portbeing operable to connect to a patient sensor for detecting anactivation indicating a physical presence at the patient sensor and adeactivation indicating a loss of physical presence at the patientsensor; a multi-color Light Emitting Diode (LED); and a processorexecuting a program stored in a non-transient medium, the processorexecuting the program to: select a mode from among multiple modes, themodes including a monitor mode in which a sensor port connected to apatient sensor is monitored for a deactivation, an alarm mode in whichan alarm is active following a deactivation detected in the monitormode, and a standby mode in which the alarm is inactive, and illuminatethe multi-color LED in a given color for indicating a given mode of theplurality of modes.

Another aspect of the present invention can provide an electronic fallmonitoring system, including: a housing enclosing electronics includinga processor; multiple sensor ports accessible through the housing, eachsensor port being operable to connect to a patient sensor for allowingthe processor to detect an activation indicating a physical presence atthe patient sensor and a deactivation indicating a loss of physicalpresence at the patient sensor; a power switch accessible through thehousing for controlling power to the electronics; and a recess in thehousing shaped for mounting the housing to a support mechanism, in whichthe power switch is disposed in the recess so that the power switch isinaccessible when the housing is mounted to the support mechanism.Another aspect of the present invention can provide an electronic fallmonitoring system, including: first and second sensor ports, each sensorport being operable to connect to a patient sensor for detecting anactivation indicating a physical presence at a patient sensor and adeactivation indicating a loss of physical presence at a patient sensor;and a processor executing a program stored in a non-transient medium,the processor executing the program to: select a mode from multiplemodes, the modes including a monitor mode in which a sensor portconnected to a patient sensor is monitored for a deactivation, an alarmmode in which an alarm is active following a deactivation detected inthe monitor mode, and a standby mode in which the alarm is heldinactive, in which selection of the monitor mode monitors one of thefirst and second sensor ports for a deactivation of a patient sensorwhile monitoring the other of the first and second sensor ports foractivation of a patient sensor.

Another aspect of the present invention can provide an electronic fallsystem, including: first and second indicators; multiple sensor ports,each sensor port being operable to connect to a patient sensor fordetecting an activation indicating a physical presence at a patientsensor and a deactivation indicating a loss of physical presence at apatient sensor; and a processor executing a program stored in anon-transient medium, the processor executing the program to: select amode from multiple modes, the modes including a monitor mode in which asensor port connected to a patient sensor is monitored for adeactivation, an alarm mode in which an alarm is active following adeactivation detected in the monitor mode, and a standby mode in whichthe alarm is held inactive; activate the first indicator to correspondto the mode selected from the modes; and activate the second indicatorto correspond to a power condition.

Another aspect of the present invention can provide an electronic fallsystem, including: multiple sensor ports, each sensor port beingoperable to connect to a patient sensor for detecting an activationindicating a physical presence at a patient sensor and a deactivationindicating a loss of physical presence at a patient sensor; and a userselectable input; and a processor executing a program stored in anon-transient medium, the processor executing the program to: select amode from multiple modes, the modes including a monitor mode in which asensor port connected to a patient sensor is monitored for adeactivation, an alarm mode in which an alarm is active following adeactivation detected in the monitor mode, and a standby mode in whichthe alarm is held inactive, in which selection of the user selectableinput for a shorter duration causes a transition to the standby mode fora shorter amount of time, and in which selection of the user selectableinput for a longer duration causes a transition to the standby mode fora longer amount of time.

These and other objects, advantages and aspects of the invention willbecome apparent from the following description. The particular objectsand advantages described herein can apply to only some embodimentsfalling within the claims and thus do not define the scope of theinvention. In the description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown apreferred embodiment of the invention. Such embodiment does notnecessarily represent the full scope of the invention and reference ismade, therefore, to the claims herein for interpreting the scope of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent likeparts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of an electronic fall monitoring system inaccordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the electronic fall monitoring system of FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is a first side view of the electronic fall monitoring system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a second side view of the electronic fall monitoring system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a detailed view illustrating a standby input and multi-colorLED of the electronic fall monitoring system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating initial set up with an electronicfall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating single sensor set up with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating wireless sensor set up with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating single sensor monitoring with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 10A is a flow chart illustrating single sensor monitoring and holdwith an electronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspectof the invention;

FIG. 10B is a flow chart illustrating single sensor monitoring andextended hold with an electronic fall monitoring system in accordancewith an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating dual sensor set up with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating dual sensor monitoring with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating sensor error modes with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating nurse call error modes with anelectronic fall monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a system for electronic fallmonitoring in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of a battery free wireless sensor padfor use in an electronic fall monitoring system in accordance with anaspect of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a sensor of FIG. 16 in accordance witha first aspect of the invention; and

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a sensor of FIG. 16 in accordance witha second. aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, in accordance with an aspect of theinvention, in front, rear and first and second side views, respectively,an electronic fall monitoring system 10 can comprise a device 12connected to multiple patient sensors (not shown) for providing an earlywarning as to when a patient who is at risk for filling is attempting toget up without assistance. As shown in the front view of FIG. 1, thedevice 12 can include a microphone 14 (labeled “MIC”), a speaker 16, alarger indicator, typically a multi-color Light Emitting Diode (LED) 18(labeled “STATUS”), and a smaller battery level indicator, typically abattery level indicator LED 20. The microphone 14 can be used to recorda statement which could be played back through the speaker 16 (“audiocue” or “audible cue”), such as a recorded statement played to a patientto return to the sensor when alarming. The device 12 can ensure a goodstatement or input is recorded (non-accidental) for the audio cue byrequiring all recordings be of at least a minimum duration, such as 3seconds, to properly register the recording as a recorded statement foraudio cues. The speaker 16 can be used to sound an alarm, such as anaudible tone and/or playback of the recorded statement, and/or can beused to play audible cues, such as instructions for setting up the fallmonitoring system 10, instructions for resolving an alarm condition,indication of connection or disconnection of a patient sensor or nursecall, and the like. The multi-color LED 18 can indicate by color variousmodes of operation of the fall monitoring system 10, such asilluminating a relatively slower (slow) flashing green to indicate a“monitor mode” in which a sensor port connected to a patient sensor isbeing monitored for a deactivation, illuminating a relatively faster(fast or rapid) flashing red to indicate an “alarm mode” in which analarm is active following a deactivation detected in the monitor modeand/or illuminating a relatively slower (slow) flashing yellow toindicate a “standby mode” in which the alarm is inactive. The batterylevel indicator LED 20 can indicate a status or charge of batteriespowering the device 12, such as when disconnected from a wired powersource, such as by flashing red when the battery is low (for example,below 20% charge, or a determination of a predetermined number of daysof charge remaining, such as less than three days of charge remaining).This essentially simplifies readability of the device.

As shown in the rear view of FIG. 2, a back portion of an externalhousing 22 or enclosure of the device 12 can include a recess 23 formounting the device 12 to a support mechanism. The support mechanismcould be, for example, a bracket, clip, bar or other arrangement held toa structure, such as a wall or chair. A power switch 24 can beaccessible through the housing 22 for controlling power to electronicsof the device 12, such as a processor or controller as described herein,for turning the device 12 on or off. In one aspect, the electronics ofthe device 12 could be implemented on four-layer circuit board with aplurality of diodes providing electrostatic discharge (ESD) protectionwith respect to the various ports as described herein. The power switch24 can be configured to allow actuation by hand, such as a fingersliding a manual electric switch, without requiring a tool. The powerswitch 24 can be disposed on the back of the device 12, in the recess23, so that the power switch 24 is completely covered by a supportmechanism, and therefore completely inaccessible by any person, whenmounted to the support mechanism. A battery cover 26, positioned belowthe power switch 24, for covering a battery compartment containingbatteries for powering the device 12, can also be disposed in the recess23, so that the batteries are also completely inaccessible by any personwhen mounted to the support mechanism.

In one aspect, the device 12 can provide an escalation protocol withrespect to low battery conditions, particularly when alternating current(AC) power is disconnected from the power port 30. Approximate batterylife for the escalation protocol can be determined by a processor orcontroller of the device 12 as described herein. Fully charged batteriesmay provide at least 30 days of continuous operation of the device 12.However, if the controller determines a first battery threshold is met,such as charge sufficient for only 3 days of operation or less, thecontroller can provide a corresponding first low battery indication,such as activating/illuminating the battery level indicator LED 20(red). Next, if the controller determines a second battery threshold ismet, such as charge sufficient for only 2 days of operation or less, thecontroller can provide a corresponding second low battery indication,such as an audio cue played to the speaker 16 (such as “Battery is low.Change battery now.”), along with the battery level indicator LED 20being turned on. In addition, during the second low battery indication,the aforementioned audio cue can be played back repeatedly in a givenperiod, such as every 15 seconds. Finally, if the controller determinesa third (lowest) battery threshold is met, such as near zero chargeremaining, the controller can provide a corresponding third low batteryindication, such as the battery level indicator LED 20 flashing toindicate a “dead battery mode” beacon with all monitoring being ceased.

As shown in the first side view of FIG. 3, the device 12 can includemultiple wired and/or wireless connections or ports, including a powerport 30 for connecting to a wired AC power source, a nurse call port 32for connecting to a nurse's station (not shown), and multiple patientsensor ports 34, such as first and second sensor ports 34 a and 34 b,also identified as “Sensor 1” and “Sensor 2,” respectively, which couldcomprise registered jack (RI) connectors on the housing 22, such asRJ-12 connectors, for example, for individually connecting to patientsensors. Each sensor port 34 can be operable to connect to a patientsensor for detecting an activation and/or deactivation of the patientsensor. An activation of a patient sensor could occur, for example, whena patient rests on the sensor indicating a physical presence at thesensor. A deactivation of a patient sensor could occur, for example,when a patient later moves from the sensor, indicating a loss ofphysical presence at the sensor. In addition to monitoring for suchactivations and/or deactivations, each sensor port 34 can also bemonitored for connections and/or disconnections to sensors. Accordingly,the nurse call port 32 and/or the patient sensor ports 34 can beconfigured for wired connections, such as by cabling directly to anotherdevice, or wireless connections, such as by cabling to a donglecomprising a radio and antenna, or a combination thereof. In addition,as will be described herein, the device 12 can further provide wirelessconnections to patient sensors and/or a nurse's stations through aninternal wireless communications module comprising one or more radiosand antennas, such as a near-field communication (NEC) and/or BluetoothLow Energy (BLE) device. In one aspect, an internal wirelesscommunications module may use out-of-band (00B) pairing via NFC toestablish a Bluetooth connection. In OOB pairing, public keys can beexchanged via a given wireless technology, such as NFC.

As shown in the second side view of FIG. 4, the device 12 can includemultiple configuration inputs for configuring the device 12. A housingcover 36 can cover or shield the configuration inputs when not in use.The configuration inputs can include, among other things: a slidingmanual electric nurse call switch 40 for configuring the nurse call port32 to operate normally open (“NO”) or normally closed (“NC”); a slidingmanual electric delay switch 42 for configuring a delay which must bemet before a sensed deactivation at a patient sensor can cause an alarm,such as 0 (no delay), 1 second or 2 seconds; an alarm mode button 44 forconfiguring a type of alarm which occurs when a sensed deactivation at apatient sensor occurs, such as a playback of a recorded voice and anaudible tone, playback of the recorded voice only, the audible toneonly, or mute; a tone button 46 for configuring a different types ofaudible alarm tones, such as for distinguishing between differentdevices 12; a volume button 48 for configuring a volume of the alarm,such as low, medium or high; and/or a record button 50 for recording avoiced statement for playback during an alarm.

In one aspect, audio playback by the device 12 can be reset moreefficiently and conveniently than past systems. In particular, when auser double presses the record button 50 in rapid succession (doubleclick), the device 12 can immediately play an audio cue warning at thespeaker 16 about the alarm recording being reset, such as “Alarm resetin 3 . . . 2 . . . 1 . . . ,” followed by resetting/clearing anyrecorded audio message for the alarm to a default voice message of thedevice 12 for the alarm. This provides a simple way for users to resetthe alarm message while keeping other device settings intact. This is animprovement over other systems, for example, which may require removalof all power sources, including batteries, and waiting for power tofully discharge, before resetting the alarm (which resets audio messageand other settings).

In addition, in one aspect, audio playback by the device 12 can beresponsive to differing changes in power states. In particular, when anAC power adapter is connected at the power port 30, the device 12detects such connection and play “On wall cube power” at the speaker 16.Similarly, when AC power adapter is disconnected from the power port 30,the device 12 detects such disconnection and play “On battery power” atthe speaker 16. This advantageously allows immediate notifications tothe user upon changes in power states which may be accidental.

In addition, in one aspect, the device 12 can provide an audio cueplayback associated with failsafe monitoring of a given sensor. A“failsafe” alarm may occur when a sensor signal is lost while in themonitor mode (monitoring a patient). When a failsafe alarm is triggered,the device 12 can detect such occurrence and play “Reconnect sensor” atthe speaker 16. In addition, if a user selectable or standby input 54 ispressed for producing a hold, as described herein, the device 12 canagain play “Reconnect sensor” at the speaker 16 as a failsafe,repeatedly, until the lost sensor signal is remedied, such as byreplacing the sensor or powering off the alarm.

As shown in FIG. 5, a detailed view 52 of the front of the device 12,the user selectable or standby input 54 (or “HOLD” button) can beprominently positioned proximal to the LED 18. The standby input 54 canoperate when pressed, even momentarily, for a shorter duration, totemporary hold or suspend the device 12, from either the monitor mode orthe alarm mode, to the standby mode. In addition, in one aspect, thestandby input 54 can be wirelessly activated to achieve all standby/holdoperations from various modes as described herein without requiring theuser to physically press (or be near) the standby input 54. Accordingly,a “smart badge” comprising a Bluetooth beacon could be used in which,when the Bluetooth beacon comes in proximity of the device 12, thedevice 12 could be wirelessly commanded to enter standby mode via thestandby input.

The standby input 54 can keep the device 12 in the standby mode for apredetermined amount of time, such as 30 seconds, each time the standbyinput 54 is pressed quickly or momentarily. When the standby input 54 ispressed for a longer duration, or predetermined minimum duration, suchas at least 3 seconds, an extended (longer) hold or suspend can becommanded, such as 5 minutes or more. In one aspect, the standby input54 can provide a singular button that pauses monitoring for a given timewhich is communicated to the user via the status light provided by LED18 changing colors to red for a given time, after which the alarm andstatus light either begin monitoring if a patient is on the sensor orpad (green) or standby if no pressure is detected (yellow).

Referring now to FIGS. 6-14, in accordance with an aspect of theinvention, a processor or controller of the device 12 as describedherein can execute a program stored in a non-transient medium of thedevice 12 for accomplishing various modes of operation (apart from anyparticular alarm mode), including the aforementioned standby, monitorand alarms modes. In addition, the processor can control the LED 18 toilluminate a color corresponding to a given mode, which color and modecan change based on various conditions encountered, such as yellow forstandby, green for monitor and red for alarm. In one aspect, a slowflashing yellow may indicate a “standby” mode in which the device 12 isready to resume monitoring or awaiting the connection of a sensor input;a fast flashing yellow may indicate a a short delay or “buffer” modebefore transitioning into the monitoring mode to allow continuoussensing for a minimum time, such as 3 seconds, to prevent falsemonitoring activation; a slow flashing green may indicate an activelymonitoring mode; a slow flashing red may indicate a temporary hold mode(normal or extended) in which no monitoring occurs for a given period oftime based on the standby input 54 or “hold button input;” and a fastflashing red may indicate an active “alarm” mode, typically accompaniedby audio alerts and/or nurse call. The numerated steps in each figureare correspondingly highlighted to indicate the particular mode of thestep (see “Status Light Key” shown in FIG. 6).

Referring to FIG. 6, a flow chart 60 illustrates an initial set up withthe electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance with an aspect ofthe invention. At 60 a, the device 12 can be installed in a supportmechanism, such as a bracket, clip, bar or other arrangement, at therecess 23. At 60 b-60 c, batteries can be installed in the batterycompartment, and/or AC power connected to the power port 30, turning onthe device 12, bringing the device into the standby mode, andilluminating the LED 18 yellow. At 60 d, an audio cue can play throughthe speaker 16 summarizing a current, default state to the user, such as“power on, alarm muted, nurse call disconnected, 1 second delay.” At 60e, a nurse call cable can optionally be connected to the nurse call port32 with the audio cue “Nurse Call Connected.” At 60 f, the user canselect a desired alarm mode via the alarm mode button 44 (apart from anyparticular mode of operation). At 60 g, an audio cue can playsummarizing the selected alarm mode, such as “voice and tone,” or “toneonly.” Following 60 h, when voice and tone is selected, or when toneonly is selected, at 60 i the user can select a desired alarm tone viathe tone button 46, followed by an audio cue playing the specified toneat 60 j. Also, following 60 h, when voice and tone is selected, or whentone only is selected, at 60 k the user can select a desired alarmvolume via the volume button 48, followed by an audio cue playing thetone at the specified volume 60 l. At 60 m, the user can select adesired delay which must be met before the alarm can activate, such as 0(no delay), 1 second or 2 seconds, via the delay switch 42, followed byan audio cue playing summarizing the delay at 60 n. Following 60 o, whenvoice is selected as the desired alarm mode, at 60 p-60 u, the user canrecord a statement through the microphone 14, which could be played backthrough the speaker 16 when the alarm is activated, using the recordbutton 50. At 60 s, a non-volatile memory retains each of theaforementioned user settings. The device 12 can be in the standby mode(with the LED 18 illuminated yellow) through each of the aforementionedsteps. Although many configurations are discussed above, the user canskip certain configurations and accept default values where skipped. Inaddition, a reset function can be received to clear user selections andrestore the system to default values.

Referring to FIG. 7, a flow chart 62 illustrates a single patient sensorset up with the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance withan aspect of the invention. In the standby mode, at 62 a the user cancheck batter/power status, at 62 b the user can check nurse cableconnection status, at 62 c the user can connect a first patient sensorto a first sensor port, such as first sensor port 34 a, and at 62 d anaudio cue can play summarizing the sensor connection state, such as“first sensor connected.” At 62 e-62 h, the user can configure the alarmsettings to customize the alarm for the first patient sensor at thefirst sensor port. When additional patient sensors are connected, theuser can similarly customize alarms for those sensors so as todistinguish alarms from among the sensors. The device 12 can be in thestandby mode (with the LED 18 illuminated yellow) through each of theaforementioned steps. At 62 i, the processor of device 12 can detect anactivation of the sensor, upon an application of pressure or closing ofa belt sensor on the sensor by the patient, indicating a physicalpresence at the sensor. At 62 j, with the activation detected, thedevice 12 can transition to the monitor mode (with the LED 18 flashingyellow), and an audio cue can play summarizing the event and the currentstate, such as “sensor activation [beep], alarm muted, nurse calldisconnected, 1 second delay.” If at 621 a deactivation is detectedwithin a predetermined amount of time, such as less than 3 seconds, thedevice 12 can return to the standby mode (the LED 18 illuminated yellow)at 62 k, until another activation is detected at 62 i. This provideshysteresis control. However, if at 62 m the activation is maintained forat least the predetermined amount of time, such as 3 seconds or more,the device 12 can continue in the monitor mode (with the LED 18illuminated green) at 62 n. Then, if at 62 o the patient removespressure from the sensor with a deactivation detected, the device 12 cantransition to the alarm mode (with the LED 18 flashing red) at 62 p,with the selected alarm being active, until pressure is reapplied to thesensor at 62 q to silence the alarm and resume monitoring in the monitormode (with the LED 18 illuminated green) at 62 r.

Referring to FIG. 8, a flow chart 64 illustrates a wireless sensor setup with the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance with anaspect of the invention. While in the standby mode (the LED 18illuminated yellow) at 64 a-64 e, a user can pair a wireless transmitterto wirelessly transmit the activation/deactivation events to a wirelessreceiver connected to a sensor port 34 of the device 12. Then, similarto the flow chart 62, the processor of device 12 can wirelessly detectan activation of the sensor, upon an application of pressure on thesensor by the patient, indicating a physical presence at the sensor,with active monitoring and hysteresis control.

Referring to FIG. 9, a flow chart 66 illustrates monitoring in with theelectronic fall monitoring system 10 with a single sensor, by way ofexample, in accordance with an aspect of the invention. While in themonitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green) at 66 a, a deactivationis detected at 66 b, the processor can determine with a delay has beenset, via the delay switch 42, at 66 c. If a delay has been set (Yes), at66 d, the processor can determine whether a re-activation is detected(the patient promptly returns to the sensor) within the time periodallowed by the delay. If the re-activation is detected, with the patientreturning to the sensor within the time period allowed by the delay(Yes), the device 12 does not enter the alarm mode, but rather continuesin the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green). However, if at66 c a delay was not set (No), or if at 66 d the re-activation does notoccur, with the patient failing to return to the sensor within the timeperiod allowed by the delay (No), at 66 f the device 12 can transitionto the alarm mode (with the LED 18 flashing red). At 66 g, if a nursecable is connected, the nurse call station will be notified for actionat 66 h-66 i (with the LED 18 flashing red). At 66 j, the processor cananalyze several actions for proceeding. At 66 k, if a re-activation isdetected, with the patient returning to the sensor, the device 12 cantransition back to the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green).Alternatively, if at 66 j the standby input 54 is pressed, the device 12can transition to the standby mode (the LED 18 illuminated red) at 66 l,and with additional reference to FIG. 10A, when a re-activation isdetected, with the patient returning to the sensor, the device 12 cantransition back to the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green)at 68 a. If at 66 m the device is powered off, such as by turning thepower switch 24 off, the device 12 will be turned off completely with nomonitoring or illumination of the LED 18.

Referring to FIG. 10A, a flow chart 68 illustrates single sensormonitoring and hold with the electronic fall monitoring system 10 inaccordance with an aspect of the invention. While in the monitor mode(with the LED 18 illuminated green) at 68 a, a user can press thestandby input 54 at 68 b for a first duration, such as less than 3seconds, to transition to the alert mode (the LED 18 illuminated red) at68 c for a predetermined amount of time, such as 30 seconds or less. Inone aspect, while in the alert mode, the processor can analyze severalactions for proceeding. At 68 d, if a deactivation is detected withinthe predetermined amount of time, such as less than the 30 seconds, theLED 18 can illuminate yellow, and the device 12 can move to the standbymode until returning to the monitor mode (see FIG. 7). Also, at 68 e, ifa deactivation is not detected within the predetermined amount of time,with the LED 18 remaining red, the user can press the standby input 54again, to clear the delay as needed, returning to the monitor mode (seeFIG. 7). Regardless, at 68 f, if an activation (or re-activation) isdetected when the predetermined amount of time expires, such as at the30 seconds, the device 12 can return to the monitor mode (see FIG. 7).Then, according to the flow chart 62, the processor of device 12 cancontinue with active monitoring and hysteresis control.

Referring to FIG. 10B, a flow chart 69 illustrates single sensormonitoring and extended hold with the electronic fall monitoring system10 in accordance with an aspect of the invention. While in the monitormode (with the LED 18 illuminated green) at 69 a, a user can press thestandby input 54 at 69 b for a second duration, such as more than 3seconds, to transition to the alert mode (the LED 18 illuminated red) at69 c for an extended predetermined amount of time, such as 5 minutes ormore. In one aspect, while in the alert mode, the processor can analyzeseveral actions for proceeding. At 69 d, and referring again to FIG. 7,if a deactivation is detected within the extended predetermined amountof time, such as less than the 5 minutes, the LED 18 can illuminateyellow, and the device 12 can move to the standby mode until returningto the monitor mode (see FIG. 7). Also, at 69 e, if a deactivation isnot detected within the extended predetermined amount of time, with theLED 18 remaining red, the user can press the standby input 54 again, toclear the delay as needed, returning to the monitor mode at (see FIG.7). Regardless, at 69 f, if an activation (or re-activation) is detectedwhen the extended predetermined amount of time expires, such as at the 5minutes, the device 12 can return to the monitor mode at (see FIG. 7).Then, according to the flow chart 62, the processor of device 12 cancontinue with active monitoring and hysteresis control.

Referring to FIG. 11, a flow chart 70 illustrates a multi sensor set upwith the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance with anaspect of the invention. At 70 a, in the standby mode, a user canconnect a first patient sensor (such as to the first sensor port 34 a)with a first corresponding audio cue being played, and at 70 b the usercan connect a second patient sensor (such as to the second sensor port34 b) with a second corresponding audio cue being played. At 70 c, theprocessor of device 12 can detect an activation of a sensor, either thefirst sensor or the second sensor, and correspondingly transition to 62j (with the LED 18 flashing yellow) (see FIG. 7), monitoring such firstor second sensor. In other words, multiple sensors can be connectedwhile in the standby mode, but not until one of the sensors is activatedwill the device 12 enter the monitor mode. In another path, at 70 e thedevice 12 may already be in the monitor mode (with the LED 18illuminated green), actively monitoring the first patient sensor (whichmay he connected to the first sensor port 34 a). Then, at 70 f, a usercan freely connect a second patient sensor (such as to the second sensorport 34 b) with a second corresponding audio cue being played, still inthe monitor mode. To adjust the patient from one sensor to the other, at70 g a user can press the standby input 54 (the LED 18 illuminatedyellow), which can transition the device 12 to the alert mode (the LED18 illuminated red) at 70 h for the predetermined amount of time, suchas 30 seconds. Still in the alert mode, at 70 i, the patient can applypressure to either the first or second sensor, and at 70 j the user canpress the standby input 54 again, to clear the delay as needed. At 70 k,temporary transition to the alert mode can then expire, returning to themonitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green). At 70 c and 62 j,monitoring resumes for the sensor on which pressure was applied at 70 i.In other words, using the standby input 54, a patient can betransitioned from one sensor to the next.

Referring to FIG. 12, a flow chart 72 illustrates multi sensormonitoring with the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordancewith an aspect of the invention. At 72 a, a first patient sensor (whichmay be connected to the first sensor port 34 a) (also “sensor A” or“primary sensor”) can be monitored by the device 12 in the monitor mode(with the LED 18 illuminated green) while a second patient sensor (whichmay be connected to the first sensor port 34 b) (also “sensor B” or“secondary sensor”) is also connected. At 72 b, the second patientsensor can be disconnected. However, despite such disconnection, thedevice 12 continues monitoring the primary patient sensor at 72 c in themonitor mode without any impact. At 72 d, the processor can detect anactivation of the second patient sensor. At 72 e, the device cantransition to the standby mode (with the LED 18 flashing yellow) and anaudio cue can play a warning with a countdown corresponding to apredetermined amount of time, such as “A second sensor will activate in10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.” In one aspect, a signal can also be sentto the nurse call station at 72 e. At 72 f, upon detecting adeactivation at the second patient sensor within the predeterminedamount of time, the device 12 can simply transition back to the monitormode (with the LED 18 illuminated green) and cease playing the warningat 72 g, while continuing to monitor the first patient sensor in themonitor mode at 72 h. In other words, multiple sensors can be connectedwhile in the monitor mode, but only one sensor will be monitored, theone sensor being the sensor originally causing entry into the monitormode. Alternatively, at 72 i upon detecting a deactivation at the firstpatient sensor within the predetermined amount of time, the device 12can transition to the alert mode (with the LED 18 flashing red) at 72 juntil resolved. Alternatively, at 72 k upon expiration of thepredetermined amount of time without any action, the device 12 cantransition to the alert mode (with the LED 18 flashing red) at 72 k.This can continue until the standby input 54 is pressed to stop thealarm at 72 l, with the device 12 transitioning back to the monitor mode(with the LED 18 illuminated green) at 68 a. However, if at 72 k eitherthe primary or secondary patient sensor is disconnected, the device 12can transition to a fail-safe alarm at 72 n. This can continue until thedisconnected sensor(s) is/are reconnected. The alarm mode can continueuntil the standby input 54 is pressed to stop the alarm at 72 p, withthe device 12 transitioning back to the monitor mode (with the LED 18illuminated green) at 68 a.

Referring to FIG. 13, a flow chart 74 illustrates sensor error modeswith the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance with anaspect of the invention. At 74 a, while actively monitoring a firstpatient sensor (which may be connected to the first sensor port 34 a)(also “sensor A” or “primary sensor”) in the monitor mode (with the LED18 illuminated green), a disconnection of the first patient sensor at 74b can cause a transition to the alarm mode (the LED 18 flashing red) at74 c. In such an instance, at 74 d, the processor can analyze severalactions for proceeding. At 74 e, a re-connection of the first sensor cantransition back to the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green)at 74 f. Alternatively, if at 74 g the standby input 54 is pressed, thedevice 12 can play an audio cue while in the alarm mode, such as“re-connect sensor to continue.” Alternatively, if at 74 h the device ispowered off, such as by turning the power switch 24 off, the device 12will be turned off completely with no monitoring or illumination of theLED 18.

Referring to FIG. 14, a flow chart 76 illustrates nurse call error modeswith the electronic fall monitoring system 10 in accordance with anaspect of the invention. At 76 a, while actively monitoring a patientsensor in the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green), theprocessor of the device 12 can detect a disconnection of the nurse callport 32 from the device itself at 76 b. This can cause a transition tothe alarm mode (the LED 18 flashing red) at 76 c. if the alarm is inmute, the device 12 can play a tone alarm at 76 d. The alarm mode willcontinue until the nurse call port 32 is re-connected at 76 e, at whichpoint the device 12 will return to the monitor mode (with the LED 18illuminated green) at 76 f. However, while actively monitoring thepatient sensor in the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green)at 76 a, if the processor of the device 12 instead detects adisconnection of the nurse call port 32 from the wall at 76 g (with acable still attached to the device itself at the nurse call port 32),the processor can determine whether the alarm is muted. If the alarm isnot muted (“mute off”), the device 12 can continue to monitor thepatient sensor in the monitor mode (with the LED 18 illuminated green)at 76 h. However, if the alarm is muted (“mute on”), the device 12 cantransition to the alarm mode (the LED 18 flashing red) at 76 i. Inaddition, or alternatively, at 76 i, if the alarm is muted (“mute on”),the device 112 can play an audio cue warning indicating “nurse calldetached,” and/or can cease muting (“mute off”).

Many different audio cues can advantageously be played to correspondwith various states and modes of the system as described above,including with respect to steps of FIGS. 6-14. Audio cues can include,for example: “ALARM RESET,” “POWER ON,” “BEGIN RECORD,” “END RECORD,”“VOLUME LOW,” “VOLUME MEDIUM,” “VOLUME HIGH,” “TONE MODE,” “VOICE MODE,”“VOICE AND TONE MODE,” “MUTE MODE,” “SENSOR ONE ATTACHED,” “SENSOR TWOATTACHED,” “SENSOR ONE ACTIVATED,” “SENSOR TWO ACTIVATED,” “SENSORDETACHED,” “TWO SENSORS IN USE,” “PLEASE DON'T GET UP, SIT BACK DOWN ANDUSE THE CALL,” “BUTTON TO CALL FOR HELP,” “ZERO DELAY,” “ONE SECONDDELAY,” “TWO SECOND DELAY,” “NURSE CALL ATTACHED,” “NURSE CALLDETACHED,” “LOW BATTERY,” “FAILED SELF TEST,” “AC ADAPTER CONNECTED,”“AC ADAPTER DISCONNECTED,” “PATIENT MONITORING RESUMED,” “YOU HAVEACTIVATED A SECOND SENSOR, PLEASE REMOVE PRESSURE WITHIN 10 SECONDS,”and/or “ALARM SUSPEND.” A default alarm message could comprise thefollowing audio cue: “PLEASE DON'T GET UP. SIT BACK DOWN AND USE THECALL BUTTON TO CALL FOR HELP.” Such audio cues can be correspondinglyplayed in the steps above as appropriate to give user guidance.

Accordingly, audio cues can be provided during various conditions,states and/or modes of the device 12, including as described above withrespect to FIGS. 6-14. Such audio cues can provide cautions and/orgentle reminders at various times depending on severity. Audio cuesproviding cautions (more severe) may include, for example: a nurse callbeing detached, physically or virtually, a mute mode activated, and/or adelay set, such as 1 or 2 seconds, any of which occurring followingpower on and activation; an extended hold being activated (such as a 5minute hold activated by pressing the standby input 54 for more than 3seconds); a low battery detected (which may alert audio cuesperiodically, such as every 15 seconds, when power is below a criticallevel or threshold); power being disconnected from the power port 30;and/or a second sensor activation being detected, including with asecond by second countdown which may start from 10. Audio cues providinggentle reminders (less severe) may include, for example: upon power on;a sensor being connected; a sensor being disconnected; a sensor beingactivated; and/or changes to given settings, such as delay, mode and/orvolume.

Also, the device 12 can provide a “one step transfer” in which acaregiver may simply press the standby input 54 (“HOLD”) once totransfer a patient from a first sensor to a second sensor, such as froma sensor arranged in a bed to a sensor arranged in a chair. Also, thedevice 12 can be selectively configured to latch an alarm, meaning anactive alarm mode can continue even if the alarm condition causing thealarm mode is satisfied and no longer occurring (such as a patientreturning to a sensor), or not latch the alarm, meaning an active alarmmode can stop when the alarm condition causing the alarm mode issatisfied and no longer occurring (such as the patient returning to thesensor).

Referring now to FIG. 15, a diagram illustrating a system 100 forelectronic fall monitoring is provided in accordance with an aspect ofthe invention. In the system 100, a device 12 can connect to multiplepatient sensors, such as patient sensors S1-S4, and/or multiple nursecall stations, such as nurse call stations N1-N2. Sensors S1-S3 could besensors pads configured for chairs, beds or toilets and/or alarm belts.Sensor S4 could be a patient wearable device, such as a leg or arm band.Sensors S1-S4 can indicate, for example, presence or absence of apatient on the sensor, and for enhanced sensors, data about the patient,such as a patient's position, relative patient movement, a patient'smovement between zones, and/or rate of patient movement.

The device 12 can include physical connection ports located on thehousing 22, such as the nurse call port 32 and/or the first and secondsensor ports 34 a and 34 b, respectively, as well as wireless connectionports (virtual) integrated within the housing 22. Such physicalconnection ports can be controlled by a processor or controller 102,which may include a microprocessor, microcontroller and/or programmablelogic, and which may include non-volatile memory for storing conditions,states and/or modes of the device 12, including as described above withrespect to FIGS. 6-14, interfacing with the physical connection portsthrough input/output (I/O) circuitry 104.

Connections to the physical connection ports may be wired from thedevice 12 to a patient sensor or nurse call station, such as wiredconnection 110 or cabling between the nurse call port 32 and nurse callstation N1 and wired connection 112 or cabling between the first sensorport 34 a and patient sensor S1. In addition, connections to thephysical connection ports may also be wireless from the device 12 to apatient sensor or nurse call station through the use of a wired dongle,a small device able which can be connected to and used with the device12 to allow wireless radio communications with other devices such aspatient sensors and nurse call stations. For example, a wired connection114 or cabling between the second sensor port 34 b and a wireless dongle116 associated with the device 12 can enable wireless communication witha compatible wireless patient sensor, such as a wireless sensor device118, configured to communicate with the wireless dongle 116, associatedwith wireless patient sensor S2.

In addition, fully wireless connection ports (virtual) can be controlledby a wireless module 106, completely internal to the housing 22, whichmodule is, in turn, controlled by the controller 102. The wirelessmodule 106 could comprise one or more devices configured for one or morewireless communications protocols, such as near-field communication(NFC), radio-frequency identification (RFID) and/or Bluetooth, using oneor more fully integrated antennas. For example, a first fully wirelessvirtual connection can be established via RFID between an element of thewireless module 106 and a wireless module 120, configured to communicatewith the wireless module 106, associated with fully wireless patientsensor S3; a second fully wireless virtual connection can be establishedvia Bluetooth between an element of the wireless module 106 and awireless module 130, configured to communicate with the wireless module106, associated with wearable patient sensor S4, which sensor iswearable as described herein; and a third fully wireless virtualconnection can be established via NFC between an element of the wirelessmodule 106 and a wireless module 140, configured to communicate with thewireless module 106, associated with a portable nurse call stationdevice N2. Connections to wireless connection ports can be in additionto, or in alternative to, the aforementioned connections to physicalconnection ports. Connections to wireless connection ports can beestablished by initially bringing the wireless patient sensor S3, thewearable patient sensor S4 or the portable nurse call station device N2in proximity to the device 12 and initiating an over-the-air handshakingprotocol between the devices. Wireless connection initiation, progressand/or success can be indicated to the user through playback ofcorresponding audio cues through the speaker 16 and/or signaling of theLED 18.

In addition, the device 12 can include a power supply block 150configured to eliminate trickle current drain or leakage from thebatteries, reduce the incidence of corrosion at terminals of thebatteries caused by such leakage, and prolong overall life of the device12 (see also FIG. 2 illustrating battery cover 26 for retaining thebatteries and power switch 24, and FIG. 3 illustrating power port 30 forreceiving wired power). In particular, an isolation switch 152,comprising one or more transistors, is associated with power switch 24to completely isolate power from batteries 154 before current from suchbatteries can reach power supply circuit 156. Power supply circuit 156,which can receive power from power port 30, and/or batteries 154 whenenabled, provides power distribution to electrical components of thedevice 12, such as microphone 14, speaker 16, LED 18, LED 20, controller102, I/O circuitry 104 and wireless module 106. When the power switch 24is switched to “On” by a user, the isolation switch 152 is switched toallow power from the batteries 154 to conduct to the power supplycircuit 156. In addition, the isolation switch 152 allows power from thepower supply circuit 156 to distribute power to the aforementionedelectrical components. However, when the power switch 24 is switched to“Off” by the user, the isolation switch 152 completely isolatesbatteries 154 and prevents power from batteries 154 from conducting tothe power supply circuit 156. Unless power is provided through the powerport 30, “Off” completely isolates electrical power from all componentsof the device 12. Nevertheless, conditions, states and/or modes of thedevice 12, including as described above with respect to FIGS. 6-14, canstill be maintained by storage of such conditions, states and/or modesin the nonvolatile memory of the controller 102. If power is providedthrough the power port 30, when “Off,” the power supply circuit 156 canstill provide limited power to electrical components of the device 12,such as the controller 102 and/or the wireless module 106 for wake-upconditions.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a diagram illustrating a cross sectional viewof a battery free wireless sensor pad 200, or simply sensor 200, isprovided in accordance with an aspect of the invention. The sensor 200could be a patient sensor in the system 100 of FIG. 15, such as thewireless patient sensor S3. The sensor 200 may comprise a multilayerpressure sensitive pad formed in top, middle and bottom layers 202, 204and 206, respectively, enclosed in a cover 20$. The bottom layer 206 maybe electrically conductive with a grid made of conductive ink on oneside. The other side may be non-conductive and have no ink. The toplayer 202 may have an electrically conductive grid made of conductiveink on one side. The other side of the top layer 202 may have anintegrated REID tag 210 bonded to the conductive ink thereby forming anantenna. The RFD tag 210 may be connected to the conductive grids of thetop layer 202 and the bottom layer 206. The RFID tag 210 may comprise aprogrammable non-volatile memory 212 and a microprocessor 214. Themiddle layer 204 may comprise a non-conductive foam layer with aplurality of holes separating the top and bottom layers 202 and 206,respectively.

When pressure is applied on the sensor 200, the conductive grids of thetop and bottom layers 202 and 206, respectively, may be in contact, andthe resistance between the conductive layers can be measured. As suchcontact area increases (through the plurality of holes of the middlelayer 204), the resistance between the top and bottom layers 202 and206, respectively, decreases. When there is no pressure on the sensor200, the conductive grids of the top and bottom layers 202 and 206,respectively, are not in contact and therefore an open circuit occurs.In other words, the conductive grids of the top and bottom layers 202and 206, respectively, are dual purpose, measuring resistance forsensing, and providing an antenna.

Accordingly, when the device 12 or an RFID reader (not shown) sends anelectromagnetic signal to the RFID tag 210 of the sensor 200, the RFID)tag 210 is powered, and the resistance of the top and bottom layers 202and 206, respectively, is measured and stored in the non-volatile memory212. The device 12 or RFID reader can send another signal to the RFIDtag 210 to read the resistance stored in the non-volatile memory of theRFID tag 210. The device 12 or RFID reader can also identify the type ofsensor 200 based on a unique identification (UID) number or pairing keystored in the non-volatile memory 212.

In an alternative aspect, the RFID tag 210 could be replaced with anintegrated circuit (IC) Bluetooth and/or NFC device. The Bluetoothand/or NFC device could be powered by over-the-air signals with aBluetooth or NFC receiver at the device 12 used to receive data from thesensor 200. Accordingly, the sensor 200 could be battery free withBluetooth or NFC operation.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a diagram illustrating a multi-zone batteryfree wireless and/or wired sensor pad 300, or simply sensor 300,implemented consistent with the cross section of the sensor 200 of FIG.16, is provided in accordance with an aspect of the invention. In thesensor 300, the conductive grids could comprise multiple, electricallyseparate, zones, such as “Zone 1,” “Zone 2” and “Zone 3.” Each zone cancorrespond to a different RFID tag 210, or Bluetooth or NEC device. Whenpressure is applied to a given zone, the resistance of that zone can bestored in the RFID tag 210, or Bluetooth or NEC device, and can beaccessed by a wireless reader such as the device 12. In other words,sensing may be accomplished on a zone by zone basis.

Referring now to FIG. 18, a diagram illustrating a multi-zone batteryfree wireless and/or wired sensor pad 400, or simply sensor 400,implemented consistent with the cross section of the sensor 200 of FIG.16, is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention. Inthe sensor 400, the conductive grids could comprise multiple,electrically separate, zones, such as “Zone 1,” “Zone 2” and “Zone 3,”with different resistances. Zones can be created with each zone having adifferent resistance, for example, by changing the tracing of the zonedesign (trace thickness and/or total area) and/or formulation of theconductive ink. All zones can be connected to a single RFID tag 210, orBluetooth or NFC device. When pressure is applied to a zone, theresistance of that zone can be stored in the RFID tag 210, or Bluetoothor NEC device, and can be accessed by a wireless reader. Accordingly,the RFID tag 210, or Bluetooth or NFC device, and/or device 12, candetermine which zone is active based on the resistance measured.

It should be appreciated that many variations may exist within the scopeof the invention. For example, in the sensor 200, the passive RFID orBluetooth tag can be a separate component that is connected to the topand bottom conductive layers to measure resistance or detect an open orclosed circuit. Also, in the sensor 200, the device 12 or other readercan reduce its read range during paring mode with the sensor. Once thesensor is in close proximity or touches (physically contacts) the device12 or other reader, the. UID or pairing key of the sensor can berecorded to complete pairing. The device 12 or other reader can thenrevert to a standard read range and continue to monitor the pairedsensor. Also, in the sensor 200, the device 12 or other reader canutilize an NFC reader. Once the sensor is in close proximity or touches(physically contacts) the device 12 or other reader, NFC pairing isinitiated. Once the UID or pairing key of the sensor is recorded,pairing may be complete. The device 12 or other reader can continue tomonitor the paired sensors. Also, in one aspect, a battery may be usedfor Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and/or RFID wireless communicationinitiated via NFC out-of-band pairing.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, andthus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper,”“lower,” “above,” and “below” refer to directions in the drawings towhich reference is made. Terms such as “front,” “back,” “rear,”“bottom,” “side,” “left,” and “right” describe the orientation ofportions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame ofreference which is made clear by reference to the text and theassociated drawings describing the component under discussion. Suchterminology may include the words specifically mentioned above,derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms“first,” “second,” and other such numerical terms referring tostructures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated bythe context.

When introducing elements or features of the present disclosure and theexemplary embodiments, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of such elements orfeatures. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intendedto be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements orfeatures other than those specifically noted. It is further to heunderstood that the method steps, processes, and operations describedherein are not to he construed as necessarily requiring theirperformance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unlessspecifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to beunderstood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

It is specifically intended that the present invention not be limited tothe embodiments and illustrations contained herein and the claims shouldbe understood to include modified forms of those embodiments includingportions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of differentembodiments as coming within the scope of the following claims. All ofthe publications described herein including patents and non-patentpublications are hereby incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic fall monitoring system, comprising:first and second sensor ports, each sensor port being operable toconnect to a patient sensor for detecting an activation indicating aphysical presence at a patient sensor and a deactivation indicating aloss of physical presence at a patient sensor; and a processor executinga program stored in a non-transient medium, the processor executing theprogram to: select a mode from a plurality of modes, the plurality ofmodes including a monitor mode in which a sensor port connected to apatient sensor is monitored for a deactivation, an alarm mode in whichan alarm is active following a deactivation detected in the monitormode, and a standby mode in which the alarm is held inactive, whereinselection of the monitor mode monitors one of the first and secondsensor ports for a deactivation of a patient sensor while monitoring theother of the first and second sensor ports for activation of a patientsensor.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second sensorports are virtual connection ports.
 3. The system of claim 2, whereineach virtual connection port is configured to connect to a patientsensor through Bluetooth out-of-band pairing via near-fieldcommunication (NFC).
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein one of the firstand second sensor ports is a physical connection port and the other ofthe first and second sensor ports is virtual connection port.
 5. Thesystem of claim 4, further comprising a housing, wherein the physicalconnection port is configured to connect to a patient through aregistered jack (RJ) connector on the housing.
 6. The system of claim 1,further comprising a speaker, and further comprising the processorexecuting to play an audio cue to the speaker.
 7. The system of claim 6,further comprising a microphone, and further comprising the processorexecuting to record a statement from the microphone, determine if therecording is of at least a minimum duration, and only upon determiningthe recording to be of at least the minimum duration, play the recordingto the speaker.
 8. The system of claim 6, further comprising a nursecall port, and further comprising the processor executing to play anaudio cue to the speaker following connection and disconnection of thenurse call port.
 9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a userselectable input, wherein selection of the user selectable input for ashorter duration causes a transition to the standby mode for a shorteramount of time with a first audio cue being played, and whereinselection of the user selectable input for a longer duration causes atransition to the standby mode for a longer amount of time with a secondaudio cue being played.
 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising auser selectable input, wherein selection of the user selectable inputduring the alarm mode causes an audio cue to be played for resolving thealarm mode.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein each sensor port isoperable to connect to a wearable patient sensor, and further comprisingthe processor executing to receive a rate of patient movement from thewearable patient sensor.
 12. An electronic fall monitoring system,comprising: first and second indicators; a plurality of sensor ports,each sensor port being operable to connect to a patient sensor fordetecting an activation indicating a physical presence at a patientsensor and a deactivation indicating a loss of physical presence at apatient sensor; and a processor executing a program stored in anon-transient medium, the processor executing the program to: select amode from a plurality of modes, the plurality of modes including amonitor mode in which a sensor port connected to a patient sensor ismonitored for a deactivation, an alarm mode in which an alarm is activefollowing a deactivation detected in the monitor mode, and a standbymode in which the alarm is held inactive; activate the first indicatorto correspond to the mode selected from the plurality of modes; andactivate the second indicator to correspond to a power condition. 13.The system of claim 12, further comprising a battery, wherein the powercondition comprises a determination of the battery having low charge.14. The system of claim 13, where the power condition is a first powercondition, and further comprising a speaker, and further comprising theprocessor executing to play an audio cue to correspond to a second powercondition.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the second powercondition comprises a determination of the battery having lower chargethan in the first power condition.
 16. The system of claim 13, furthercomprising a housing, a power switch on the housing, a power port on thehousing for receiving alternating current (AC) power, and a power supplycircuit configured to receive power from power port and the battery fordistribution to the processor, wherein the power switch completelyisolates power from the battery before such power can reach the powersupply circuit to prevent battery leakage.
 17. The system of claim 12,wherein the first and second indicators are first and second LightEmitting Diodes (LED's), respectively, and wherein the first LED isrelatively larger while the second LED is relatively smaller.
 18. Thesystem of claim 17, wherein the first LED is a multi-color LED in whicha different color is illuminated in each mode of the plurality of modes.19. An electronic fall monitoring system, comprising: a plurality ofsensor ports, each sensor port being operable to connect to a patientsensor for detecting an activation indicating a physical presence at apatient sensor and a deactivation indicating a loss of physical presenceat a patient sensor; and a user selectable input; and a processorexecuting a program stored in a non-transient medium, the processorexecuting the program to: select a mode from a plurality of modes, theplurality of modes including a monitor mode in which a sensor portconnected to a patient sensor is monitored for a deactivation, an alarmmode in which an alarm is active following a deactivation detected inthe monitor mode, and a standby mode in which the alarm is heldinactive, wherein selection of the user selectable input for a shorterduration causes a transition to the standby mode for a shorter amount oftime, and wherein selection of the user selectable input for a longerduration causes a transition to the standby mode for a longer amount oftime.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein selection of the userselectable input during the alarm mode causes an audio cue to be playedfor resolving the alarm mode.